How genes affect weight loss with Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion)
Association of genetic variation near the dopamine D2 receptor gene and other polymorphisms that modulate dopaminergic and opioid signaling on the weight loss response to naltrexone/bupropion
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11250100
This work looks at whether adults' genes help predict how much weight they'll lose on Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion).
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11250100 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine genetic differences near the dopamine D2 receptor and other variants that influence dopamine and opioid signaling to see how they relate to weight loss on Contrave. They will link genetic test results with clinical measures of weight loss to identify who gains the most benefit from naltrexone/bupropion. Participants will be classified as responders or non-responders based on percent weight loss and common genetic patterns will be sought. The goal is to move toward more personalized medication choices for weight management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults aged 21 and older with overweight or obesity who are considering or taking Contrave would be the best fit for this work.
Not a fit: People under 21, those not using naltrexone/bupropion, or individuals whose weight issues stem from other non-dopaminergic causes may not gain direct benefit from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help clinicians pick Contrave for people most likely to benefit and avoid giving it to those unlikely to respond.
How similar studies have performed: Previous trials show Contrave yields about 6% average weight loss with roughly half of patients achieving clinically meaningful loss, but using genetics to predict individual response is still relatively new.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KORNER, JUDITH — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: KORNER, JUDITH
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.